Baripada (Mayurbhanj): Police on Monday arrested a man for allegedly raping and murdering a widow who was living alone in Baliapita village under Baisinga police station limits in Mayurbhanj district.
The accused, identified as Sukadeb Dalei alias Muna (35) of Gobindapur village under Remuna police limits in Balasore district, was apprehended following an investigation into the woman’s death. He will be forwarded to court today.
The deceased, Anita Singh alias Khani, had been living alone since the death of her husband nearly 12 years ago. Her only son, Birendra Singh (32), has been residing in Pondicherry for the past 10 years. To sustain herself, Anita reportedly ran a small grocery shop from her house.
According to police, Anita had recently come in contact with the accused, who worked as a sand supplier, for materials required to repair her house. During the course of their interaction, the accused allegedly started visiting her residence frequently.
Investigators said Anita had spoken to the accused over the phone on the evening of May 20. Later that night, the accused allegedly went to her house, knowing she was alone, and forcibly raped her.
Police further said that after raping her, the accused allegedly strangulated the woman using an apron and tied her legs with a napkin in an attempt to destroy evidence and prevent disclosure of the crime. He then fled the spot on his motorcycle after taking away the victim’s mobile phone.
During interrogation, the accused reportedly confessed to the crime and recreated the sequence of events in the presence of witnesses. Police also seized the mobile phone and the motorcycle allegedly used in the crime.
Further investigation into the case is underway.
